Welcome to LEADS Lounge, the place where educators kick back, share stories, and talk about what really matters in our schools. Every episode features a new guest from the world of education—principals, teachers, advocates, and innovators—who bring fresh ideas and honest conversations. Grab a coffee, settle in, and join us in the Lounge.
From Chalkboards to ChatGPT: The Evolution of Technology in Education
In this episode of LEADS Lounge, we take a look at the evolving role of technology in education—from where we started to where we may be headed next.
We begin by exploring the history of technology in the classroom and how technology has changed the way teachers teach and students learn. From there, we dive into the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and what it could mean for the future of education.
Our conversation explores practical ways technology and AI can support teachers and students, the balance between using technology effectively and using too much, and what parts of education should remain distinctly human.
We also discuss AI literacy, responsible technology use, student privacy, and the conversations happening in Kansas around potential statewide expectations for instructional technology.
Technology in education isn't a new conversation—but the pace of change certainly is. What can we learn from where we've been, and how can we make thoughtful decisions about where we're going?
6 Aug 2026
Building the Future of Kansas Education
What does the future of education in Kansas look like—and how do we get there?
In this episode of LEADS Lounge, we sit down with Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Jake Steel for a conversation about leadership, vision, and the opportunities ahead for Kansas schools.
From his journey as a Kansas public school student and classroom teacher to serving in the U.S. Department of Education, the White House, and now as Commissioner, Dr. Steel shares the experiences that have shaped his leadership philosophy. Together, they discuss supporting educators, using data to improve student outcomes, strengthening school systems, and what it means to lead with purpose in today's educational landscape.
Whether you're a teacher, administrator, board member, or simply passionate about public education, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a hopeful look at what's next for Kansas schools.
26 Jul 2026
The Disney Difference: Building a Culture That Lasts
What makes Disney one of the most admired organizations in the world? It's more than castles and characters, it's intentional leadership, purposeful culture, and an unwavering focus on the experience of every guest. Join leadership expert Jeff Barnes for a conversation exploring how the principles behind Disney's success can inspire schools to create cultures where students, staff, and families feel valued, connected, and inspired every day
24 Jun 2026
A LEADS Lounge Reunion
Together, Taylor, Leah, and John bring more than five decades of combined experience in education. Since their last appearances on the LEADS Lounge, each has continued to influence the profession in unique ways—through classroom teaching, educational leadership, advocacy, public speaking, and even public service.
Join us as we catch up on their journeys, discuss the current state of education, and explore what gives them hope for the future of teaching and learning. Whether you're a classroom teacher, administrator, aspiring leader, or education advocate, this conversation is sure to provide insight, inspiration, and practical takeaways.
31 May 2026
One State. Many Classrooms. One Message
In this episode of Leads Lounge, we’re joined by members of the Kansas Teacher of the Year Team—an elite group of educators representing classrooms from every corner of Kansas.
They’re in schools across the state sharing a unified message, learning from educators, and seeing firsthand what’s happening in classrooms right now.
From powerful innovations to real challenges, this episode pulls back the curtain on what teaching in Kansas really looks like today—and where it’s headed next.
19 Apr 2026
Leading with Purpose: Empowering Teachers, Elevating Classrooms
In this episode of Leads Lounge, we sit down with District Elementary Instructional Coach Hailey Couch, an educator whose impact stretches from the kindergarten classroom to statewide educational leadership. With over a decade in education, Hailey shares her journey from teacher to coach, her passion for supporting early career educators, and her mission to strengthen teacher retention and instructional excellence across her district.
We also dive into her leadership philosophy, what drives her work every day, and a few fun surprises—including her go-to hype song and a fact that most people wouldn’t expect.
This conversation is all about empowerment, growth, and what it truly means to lead from the inside out in education.
6 Feb 2026
If Walt Were Leading Today… Leadership Lessons Revisited
What would leadership look like if Walt Disney were leading today? In this return visit to the LEADS Lounge, Dr. Barnes—best-selling author, international speaker, and known worldwide as Dr. Disneyland—helps us revisit Disney’s leadership principles through a modern lens. Building on our earlier conversation, we dive deeper into vision, culture, storytelling, and the intentional choices that turn big ideas into lasting impact. This episode challenges leaders to think differently about how they design experiences, develop people, and create a legacy that endures. Once again, you may never look at Disney...or leadership...the same way.
9 Jan 2026
Leadership Lessons from the Happiest Place on Earth
What if leadership, learning, and legacy could be taught in line for a ride? In this episode of the LEADS Lounge, we welcome Jeff Barnes best-selling author, international speaker, and famously known as Dr. Disneyland. As the only professor teaching an accredited college course on the history of Disneyland, Jeff sees Disney parks as living classrooms filled with powerful lessons about people, purpose, and possibility. Join us for a conversation that blends magic with meaning—and might just change the way you think about leadership forever.
16 Dec 2025
From Classroom to Calling: Building the Future of Teaching
How do we recruit the next generation of educators—and make sure they stay?
In this episode of the LEADS Lounge, we’re joined by Amy Hillman and Todd Roberts, two leaders working at the heart of Kansas’ educator pipeline. Together, they bring nearly 50 years of experience in teaching, leadership, recruitment, and teacher preparation.
Amy Hillman, Recruiter Liaison for USD 233 and Assistant Director of the Kansas Future Teacher Academy, shares her journey from the classroom to district and university leadership, and her passion for equity, innovation, and meaningful pathways into the profession.
Todd Roberts, Teachers College Recruitment and Partnership Specialist at Emporia State University, reflects on his classroom roots and the work he now leads to connect future educators with districts across the state—strengthening partnerships and sustaining the profession.
This conversation dives into:
✔️ Why recruitment must start early
✔️ How relationships keep educators in the profession
✔️ What schools, districts, and universities can do together
✔️ Why the future of education depends on intentional support
If you care about the future of teaching, teacher recruitment, and building pathways that work—this is a must-listen.
🎧 Tune in now and join us in the LEADS Lounge.
24 Nov 2025
Bringing Joy Back to Teaching with Leah Carper
In this energizing episode of LEADS Lounge, Jordan and Dwayne sits down with educator and encourager Leah Carper, a North Carolina Teacher of the year, to explore what it really means to bring joy back to education. Leah shares her passion for joyful teaching, what fuels her work, and why joy isn’t just a feeling—it’s a powerful instructional strategy.
Together, they dig into practical ways teachers can intentionally create moments of joy, connection, and authenticity in their classrooms, even when stress and burnout are at an all-time high. From small mindset shifts to simple classroom routines that spark smiles, Leah brings humor, heart, and real-world insight to the conversation.
Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned veteran, this episode is a refreshing reminder that joy matters—and that schools can be places full of laughter, love, and learning.
20 Nov 2025
John Arthur: Empowering Student Voices
In this powerful episode of LEADS Lounge, we sit down with John Arthur, a nationally recognized educator and passionate advocate for equity, student leadership, and authentic learning. John teaches sixth grade at Meadowlark Elementary, a Title I school in Salt Lake City, Utah, where his students have gained national attention through the impactful videos they create and share on their YouTube channel, 9thEvermore (follow them).
John shares how he coaches his students to take the lead—helping them craft meaningful content, amplify their voices, and advocate for children and immigrant communities across the country. We explore his journey from substitute teaching in Title I schools to becoming a National Board-Certified Teacher, a university adjunct professor, and a respected educational leader shaping Utah’s K–6 social studies standards.
As a champion for educational equity, John draws on his service with the Utah State Board of Education’s advisory committee on equity, his leadership in the Salt Lake Education Association’s social justice committee, and his experience speaking at national conferences. His passion, insight, and commitment to students make this a must-listen episode for educators and leaders everywhere.
Tune in and be inspired by John’s belief in the power of student voice—and learn how you can foster it in your own classrooms and communities.
20 Nov 2025
Conversation with the Kansas Commissioner of Education
Join us on LEADS Lounge for an insightful conversation with the Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson. We dive into the latest initiatives, policies, and priorities shaping education across the state. Learn about strategies to support teachers, students, and schools, and gain a behind-the-scenes look at the decisions that impact classrooms every day.
Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or passionate about Kansas education, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable insights for making a difference in your school community.
20 Nov 2025
Taylor Bussinger: Kansas Teacher of the Year
Join us on LEADS Lounge as we sit down with Taylor Bussinger, an innovative educator making a difference in education. Taylor shares insights on education, offering practical tips and inspiration for educators at every level.
Tune in to hear Taylor’s story, challenges, and successes, and discover actionable ideas you can bring to your own classroom or school leadership journey.
20 Nov 2025
Benjamin Eckelberry: Kansas Teacher of the Year Finalist
In this episode of LEADS Lounge, we sit down with Benjamin Eckelberry, Kansas Teacher of the Year finalist and an outstanding 1st grade teacher from Tecumseh, Kansas. Benjamin shares the heart behind his classroom, the practices that fuel student success, and what it truly means to create a joyful, supportive learning environment for our youngest learners. From building relationships to embracing the power of early literacy, this conversation shines a light on why exceptional teaching matters—and how educators at every level can lead with purpose.
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